Innovative Competitions
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is introducing innovative changes to help the charitable gaming sector as a result of requests from stakeholders. Charitable gaming includes activities like lotteries, raffles, and bingo, where the proceeds support local nonprofits, community projects, and other charitable causes.
One of the most prominent changes allows qualifying charities to offer subscription services and accept automatic payments for their lotteries. Another lets charities sell electronic raffle tickets in which one number can be used for multiple entries. The process is possible through a technical feature known as Single Number Multi-Chance, which streamlines the sale of multiple raffle tickets to one player.
Allowing subscription-based e-raffle tickets requires an update to the Lottery Licensing Policy Manual and Electronic Raffle Systems Minimum Technical Standards. There are also stipulations that charities must follow to be eligible to offer subscriptions. They must operate clear and transparent billing processes, and subscriptions must be opt-in only. Subscription cannot be set as the default option for joining a charitable lottery scheme.
Introduction of BOT+
In the bulletin detailing the changes, the AGCO emphasised that the updates reflect a commitment to encourage innovation. The bulletin also indicated a goal of alleviating the burden on the charitable gaming sector in 2025.
The AGCO also announced they are introducing a new charitable gaming opportunity known as BOT+. From January 8, players are able to buy a single ticket that includes a Break Open Ticket (BOT) and access to two other games. Break Open Tickets (BOTs) are similar toscratchcards but they only require players to peel a cover to reveal the prize. The AGCO say that BOT+ expands the possibility for creativity and flexibility in the charitable gaming sector.
Charities need to apply to the AGCO to get an individual license to offer BOT+ tickets. The charities must also follow the new BOT+ Terms and Conditions, which outline key details, including which BOT and raffle games can be combined on a BOT+ ticket, the requirements for ticket sales, and how the game offerings on the ticket should be allocated to determine prize pot amounts, proceeds, expenses, and reporting.
